How many hours of driving on the highway is considered fatigued driving?
2 Answers
Driving on the highway for more than four hours is considered fatigued driving. Continuous driving on the highway for over 4 hours without stopping for a break or with a break time of less than 20 minutes is classified as fatigued driving. Here are the specific details about fatigued driving: Determination via electronic license plates: Vehicles equipped with electronic license plates can display driving behavior, duration, and speed digitally, promptly indicating whether the driver is fatigued. Fatigued driving alerts: A fatigued driving system can be installed in the vehicle. Using facial recognition technology, the system interacts with the driver to monitor their state and issue alerts. Common fatigued driving systems include warnings for closed eyes, looking down, yawning, smoking, making phone calls, looking around, and obstructing the camera. New traffic regulations on highway fatigued driving: If a driver operates a vehicle continuously for more than 4 hours without resting or rests for less than 20 minutes, they will be penalized with a 12-point deduction upon detection by the system.
I often drive long distances, especially on highways, and it's easy to get fatigued over time. Personally, I think the risk increases significantly after driving continuously for more than two hours. I once drove for three hours without a break, and my eyelids became heavy, reactions slowed down, and I almost rear-ended another car. Fatigue isn't just about feeling tired—it blurs your vision and slows decision-making. At highway speeds of 100 km/h, even a one-second delay can be fatal. I recommend stopping at a service area every one and a half to two hours for a ten-minute break, or switching drivers to stay alert. Don't push yourself—safety is more important than saving time. Develop good habits: avoid driving on an empty stomach or after eating too much. Keep some energizing drinks handy, but don’t rely on caffeine to push through. When planning a trip, check rest stops in advance and minimize nighttime driving, as fatigue accumulates faster. Remember, drowsy driving is one of the leading causes of accidents—prevention comes first.
